Determining the Molecular Mechanisms Regulated by RAD51 and MRE11 Genes in Oocyte Maturation Using Bioinformatics Studies

Abstract

Introduction: Female infertility presents a major challenge within the field of reproductive health, since it is influenced by multiple genetic and molecular factors. This study was designed to investigate the role of RAD51 and MRE11 genes in oocyte maturation and their involvement in molecular networks.

Methods: The protein–protein interaction network was retrieved from the STRING database and subsequently analyzed with the help of Cytoscape. The MCODE algorithm was then applied to identify functional clusters, while pathway enrichment tools were used to determine relevant biological pathways. Regulatory miRNAs that may target these genes were examined through the miRTarBase database.

Results: Network analysis revealed that BRCA1 and BARD1 function as central hub genes, whereas ATM and ATRX were identified to be present within the key functional clusters identified by MCODE. Enriched pathways indicated that these genes are involved in homologous recombination, the DNA damage response, cellular senescence, and the regulation of the cell cycle. Furthermore, the miRTarBase analysis showed that several miRNAs, including miR-155 and miR-34a, are capable of targeting RAD51 and potentially regulating its expression.

Conclusion: These findings collectively highlight the critical role of DNA repair–related gene networks in maintaining oocyte quality and suggest that RAD51, MRE11, and their associated pathways could serve as potential therapeutic targets for female infertility